Positively Impacting the Community with the Help of the Alamo EDC and VIDA

The Alamo Economic Development Corporation is a firm believer in making an impact within the community, whether it’s a fundraiser, toy drive or helping residents. Together with the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA), the Alamo EDC is able to empower underserved residents in the Alamo community with tools, education and training to become successful and self-sufficient.

Breaking the Mold

Alamo resident Ysel Recio was struggling to find a stable career that would ensure financial stability. As a single mother with a four-year old son, living on minimum wage became difficult. After hearing about VIDA, Recio took the initiative to enroll at South Texas College (STC) and began studying to earn her associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy Care while working part time at the STC library.

With the help and support of VIDA, Ysel is now a first generation college graduate working as a full time Respiratory Therapist earning a healthy salary with great benefits. Thanks to VIDA, the Alamo EDC and her commitment to bettering her life and that of her son’s, Ysel no longer has to worry about having an unstable job.

Help From VIDA

VIDA was established in 1995 in response to the needs of employers in the Lower Rio Grande Valley looking for a trained workforce and of low-skilled and low-income adults in the region to further their education and training. The program is designed to help participants attain an associate’s degree or certificate that trains them for in-demand occupations so they can attain employment with benefits and opportunities for career advancement.

Through VIDA, students are assisted with books, transportation, childcare and tuition on a case-by-case basis. The program intends for individuals to become economically self-sufficient, which, in turn, contributes to the economic base in the region so that counties can provide greater services for residents and attract investments by employers.

Creating a Ripple Effect

A skilled workforce empowers not only personal confidence, but also helps build a strong community and successful local economy. The ultimate goal is job retention, not just job placement, which will develop strong citizens who are self-sufficient taxpayers, providing a clear return on investment on the federal, state and local levels while securing private funding. Our graduates have not only helped the families they support and the businesses that now employ them, their abilities to successfully move from the ranks of the low-income has helped us all. Their increased earnings have also enhanced their contributions to our tax system and reduced their dependence on public welfare.

It not only helps graduates and participants, but their success trickles down to the community as well. With higher wages comes more spending. Spending locally means that more sales taxes go back to the local economy and fosters growth in business. This is why it is essential to have higher education opportunities and programs. Having a skilled workforce in key areas, such as Respiratory Therapy Care, is in high demand in today’s job market and can help potential employers reach greater success.

Investing in Your Future

The Alamo EDC was able to invest in this opportunity with VIDA while also leveraging their donations with other funding. The Alamo EDC understands that by helping the local community, we are striving for a stronger, more prosperous future together. For more information about the Alamo EDC and how it can help your business, contact us online or call 956.787.6622.